​Enterovirus D68

Enteroviruses are commonly occurring, causing 10 to 15 million infections a year. These usually present as mild infections especially in young children. Many people infected with enteroviruses do not present with any symptoms. They are also known as non-polio enteroviruses.

Recently, children presenting with severe respiratory illness were diagnosed with a rare form of enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) in Illinois and Missouri. CDC is currently investigating these clusters. There is currently no treatment for EV-D68 and no vaccine against it. As with most respiratory infections, the best prevention for EV-D68 is to wash hands well and often, avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, stay home when sick, disinfect toys in play areas often, avoid kissing, hugging or sharing cups/ utensils with a sick person.